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Beyond Acadia: 11 Wild & Wonderful Maine Escapes

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 3 days ago
  • 4 min read

Map of Maine showing the 11 wild and wonderful Maine escapes

11 Wild & Wonderful Maine Escapes to Acadia National Park

We love Acadia National Park — and with over 3.8 million annual visitors, we’re not alone. But what if you want the same epic coastal scenery without the hustle and bustle? Maine’s hidden gems offer that same wild, rugged beauty with a whole lot more peace and quiet.


Whether you're a hiker, kayaker, camper, or coastal explorer, this guide to 11 Wild & Wonderful Maine Escapes to Acadia National Park will help you escape the crowds and uncover lesser-known treasures.



1. Discover the Quiet Side of Acadia: Schoodic Peninsula

Just across Frenchman Bay from Bar Harbor, the Schoodic Peninsula is the only mainland section of Acadia National Park. With 90% fewer visitors, Schoodic offers spectacular views, rocky coastline trails, and peaceful seascapes.


2. Explore the Peninsula Next Door: Blue Hill, Brooklin, Castine & Deer Isle

Avoid the MDI traffic by heading to the Blue Hill Peninsula, where peaceful fishing towns, artists’ enclaves, and nature preserves await.

  • Things to Do: Hike Blue Hill Mountain, kayak in Penobscot Bay, visit the Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, or wander Harriman Point in Brooklin.

  • Don’t Miss: Stonington’s Sand Beach and preserves on Deer Isle.

  • Visitor Info: bluehillheritagetrust.org


3. Take the Ferry to Isle au Haut

Part of Acadia National Park but far removed from the crowds, Isle au Haut is a remote island paradise reachable from Stonington by ferry.


4. Hike the Dramatic Cutler Coast

Nicknamed the Bold Coast, this reserved land is Maine wilderness at its finest. Hike dramatic cliffs and oceanfront trails without ever seeing a crowd.


5. Beach & Paddle at Roque Bluffs State Park

Located near Machias, Roque Bluffs offers sandy beach relaxation and inland pond paddling—all within walking distance.

  • Activities: Hiking Larry’s Loop, swimming at Simpson Pond, fossil hunting along Englishman Bay.

  • Visitor Info: maine.gov/roquebluffs


6. Sunrise at Quoddy Head State Park

Welcome the nation’s first sunrise at Quoddy Head Light in Lubec. Trails here wind through bogs and dramatic sea cliffs, offering unspoiled views and rare geological features.

  • Explore: Gulliver’s Hole, Coastal Trail, and Carrying Place Cove.

  • Visitor Info: maine.gov/quoddyhead


7. Wander the Hidden Beaches of Cobscook Shores

With 15 miles of preserved shoreline, Cobscook Shores in Lubec features multiple parks with secluded beaches and tide pools—no entry fees required.


8. Climb Granite Trails on Great Wass Island Preserve

Located in Beals, Great Wass Island offers pink granite cliffs and lush bogs without needing a ferry. This remote coastal island is teeming with biodiversity.

  • Trail Highlight: Shoreline Trail (4.5 miles).

  • Visitor Info: tnc.org


9. Scale the Rhyolite Cliffs of Mount Kineo

Towering over Moosehead Lake, Mount Kineo rises more than 700 feet above the water. Take a ferry from Rockwood or cross on foot in winter.

  • Popular Routes: Indian Trail, Bridle Trail.

  • Wildlife: Prime moose spotting area!

  • Visitor Info: mooseheadlake.org


10. Trek the Cliffs of Monhegan Island

Accessible only by ferry, Monhegan Island offers breathtaking coastal cliffs and miles of scenic trails. With no cars, it’s like stepping back in time.

  • Top Trail: Cliff Trail, with views of shipwrecks and tidal pools.

  • Visitor Info: monheganwelcome.com


11. Traverse the Harpswell Peninsulas

South of Brunswick, Harpswell offers island-hopping coastal hikes, kayaking, and tidepooling with views to rival Acadia—minus the traffic.

  • Trail Favorites: Devil’s Back, Giant’s Stairs, Cliff Trail.

  • Visitor Info: hhltmaine.org


Plan Your Crowd-Free Coastal Getaway

Maine's scenic coast goes far beyond Acadia. Whether you want to explore dramatic cliffs, hike secluded trails, or lounge on hidden beaches, these 11 spots deliver the best of Maine—without the congestion.

Related Resources:


What to Do in Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.

  • Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.

  • Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.

  • Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River










Maine’s hidden gems offer that same wild, rugged beauty with a whole lot more peace and quiet.

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